This week Ryan, Terry, and Justin sit down to discuss writing to specific topics and themes, such as holiday stories. Usually we write whatever comes to mind, but sometimes we have strict guidelines, so how do we work with that? We hope you enjoy.

2 Responses to “Episode 155 – Die Hard Isn’t A Christmas Movie”

For those who may not be aware, Marvin Zindler was the basis for the character of “Melvin” (played by Dom DeLuise) in “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”. The play / movie was loosely based on an actual news investigation that Mr. Zindler conducted, exposing a house of “ill repute” in La Grange, Texas. I think that was actually the investigation that put Marvin on the map as an investigative reporter… well, that and the fact that the sheriff in LaGrange beat the ever lovin’ crap out of Marvin after the investigation had forced the infamous “chicken ranch” to shut down.

[quote]
Chicken Ranch Closes in La Grange
LA GRANGE (1973)

On this date in 1973, the Best Little Whore House in Texas, the notorious “Chicken Ranch” in La Grange was closed by DPS officers under orders from Governor Dolph Briscoe.
Briscoe was pressured by a bombardment of stories by celebrity news reporter Marvin Zindler of KTRK-TV. With the help of reports from Texas Attorney General John Hill, Zindler exposed the local officials who allowed the illegal brothel to operate under their noses.
DPS investigations revealed that in the last two days of operation, 484 clients visited the cat house. Finally, under Govenor Briscoe’s orders, it was closed after 130 years of continuous operation, on this date in 1973.
In addition to inspiring a Broadway Musical and movie “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”, it was the subject of 1970s ZZ Top hit, “LaGrange.” [/quote]